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Peninsula Community Foundation releases aging study; Peninsula Agency on Aging outlines services and asks for state funding support
Summary
A new Peninsula Community Foundation report projects large growth of residents aged 60 and older by 2050 and highlights increased demand for health care, caregiving and transportation; Peninsula Agency on Aging said it needs sustained funding and asked the board to consider a letter supporting a proposed state budget increase.
A new study released by the Peninsula Community Foundation — funded in partnership with the six local governments that share the Peninsula — projects rapid growth in the older adult population through 2050 and warns of increased demand for caregiving, medical support, and affordable, accessible housing. The foundation’s CEO, Adelia Thompson, and Bill Massey, outgoing director of the Peninsula Agency on Aging (PAA), briefed the Board of Supervisors and described service needs and gaps.
Why it matters: The report projects a large relative increase among residents aged 80 and older and warns that higher rates of chronic health conditions, disability and limited family‑care options will create greater demand for home‑based supports, transportation and workforce caregivers. Localities and nonprofit providers will need to plan for housing modifications, transportation options and caregiver supports.
What the report shows: Thompson summarized the research, saying the 60+ population nearly doubled since 1970 and that projected growth among 60–80+ cohorts will continue; the report highlights neighborhoods on the Peninsula that will have the highest concentrations of residents 80+ by 2050. The analysis flagged the growing number of EMS calls for older adults, increased “lift assists” and the projected shortfall of paid caregivers.
Agency programs and request: Bill Massey described PAA services, including Meals on Wheels, transportation (nearly 14,000 rides reported in 2024), congregate dining and caregiver support programs. He explained that PAA receives some contract revenue (for example, a Veterans‑directed care contract) and foundation support, but that service gaps remain. PAA asked the board to consider a letter of support for a statewide network funding request: the agency network in Virginia is seeking an additional $10 million in the next General Assembly session; PAA’s share would be roughly $500,000 under the proposed formula.
Board reaction and next steps: Supervisors thanked the presenters and asked staff to consider next steps. Massey said PAA will continue local outreach and urged referrals to the new GUIDE Medicare demonstration that provides non‑clinical caregiver supports for families living with dementia. No formal board vote was held on funding; PAA requested consideration of a support letter.
